Follow Us!

An introduction to Climate Conversation

As an environmentalist, I have a keen interest in the ongoing public conversation about climate change, but I have often been frustrated by the tone and substance of the conversation. Despite compelling evidence of the causes and impacts of climate change, progress in addressing this serious global issue has been slow.

While I am one who is predisposed, if not just able, to “connect the dots” among the disparate sources of information, others appear not to see mounting or compelling evidence of climate change, how it may be affecting their lives or livelihoods, or what steps might be taken to mitigate or adapt to such impacts. Why is that?

This blog is focused on exploring this question. It is about the nature and dynamics of the “climate conversation.” It is not intended to marshal the facts about climate change or provide tips on how to talk about climate change. Rather, I want to better understand the attitudes and perceptions that underlie the conversation, and how this conversation informs and is informed by scientific, political, religious, and other considerations.

This is a personal blog. I will be starting my own conversation with those closest to me, my family, friends, and colleagues from work, then branching out to query others, some of whom will and won’t have any apparent connection to climate issues.

Since I live in the Southwest, which is experiencing a prolonged drought and may be especially vulnerable to climate change, I will pay attention to how the conversation about climate is evolving in and around my home. I also hope to explore the conversation across the West, the nation, and globally.

John Shepard

An environmentalist, John Shepard has lived with his family in Tucson, Arizona, since 1995 . His work takes him throughout the American West and Northwest Mexico, giving him a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting the region’s landscapes and communities.